M16 MODEL 601 LOWER RECEIVER PIVOT PIN Reviews & Ratings

MODEL 601 FRONT PIN ASSEMBLY

The Brownells M16 Model 601 Pivot Pin serves two purposes in your retro M16 / AR-15 build. First, the button has the correct contour to give your rifle an extra level of detail accuracy. Second, and more important, this M16 Model 601 Pivot Pin must be used on the Brownells M16 BRN-601 retro lower receiver. The reason? Our lower so accurately replicates the original Model 601 receiver so closely that it does not have the modern magazine fence to allow use of a modern AR-15 detent spring and pin.

Machined from hardened 4130 carbon steel
Period-correct matte black (dark gray) phosphate Parkerized finish
Long-wearing hardened stainless steel detent ball included
Required pivot pin for use on BRN-601 Lower Receiver (#078-000-359)

The Brownells M16 Model 601 Pivot Pin plays a small but very necessary part in helping you build the finest retro M16 replica possible.

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5 Stars

91%

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1 Stars

Reviews Summary

The M16 Model 601 Lower Receiver Pivot Pin is praised for its precise fit and functionality, particularly with Brownells and related retro builds. While users appreciate its quality, some express frustration over its pricing and that it isn't included with the receiver, which could hinder assembly. Overall, it serves its purpose well for specific models.

What Reviewers Are Saying

Product Fit and Functionality

75%

Reviewers frequently highlight the excellent fit and secure function of the pivot pin, specifically noting its compatibility with various retro builds like the BRN-601. Many confirm that it performs flawlessly, enhancing the assembly of M16-style rifles.

Pricing Concerns

50%

Several customers express dissatisfaction with the price of the pin, suggesting that at $15.99, it feels excessive, especially since it is a critical part that should ideally be included with the receiver.

Customer Expectations and Missing Information

43%

A number of reviews indicate disappointment over the lack of information about the necessity of this pin with the receiver, leading to potential assembly delays. Customers feel that more transparency and clearer communication from the retailer could enhance overall satisfaction.

Quality and Design

40%

The quality and design of the pivot pin receive positive feedback, with users noting its craftsmanship and purpose-built nature for specific rifle models. However, some mention that the design leads to slight looseness during operation, characteristic of its intended use.

Customer Photos & Videos

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Push pin

I bought this for a future project.

Would you recommend this? Yes, I would recommend to a friend

by EDWARD M. on August 20, 2026

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Perfect fit

Used an M16A1 kit originally. The front pivot pin was completely wrong. Then I found this pin. When it came, it slid it perfectly and hold securely. The perfect finish for you 601 build.

by TIMOTHY B. on March 22, 2024

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Close to the original

I think that it’s going to look great when done going to look like a m16a1 when done

by Ellis J. on March 12, 2024

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It works

Bought is for a H & R (PSA) 601 lower works fine with this lower. Dimensions of the pivot pin tolerances.

by OWEN O. on January 31, 2024

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Great

Just what I wanted

by DANA S. on January 21, 2024

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Model 601 front hinge pin

Perfect fit and function

by Rodney C. on October 19, 2023

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better to have a spare

Have a BRN-601, part is identical to one that came in rifle. As it's a nonstandard part and rifle is nonfunctional without this easily lost part a spare is a no brainier.

by Benjamin P. on September 09, 2023

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Works great

I'm using this on a 601 build I'm doing. I'm using an H&R upper and a Tactical Machining A2 loer that I milled and tweaked to turn into a slabside lower. Pin works just fine, I just had to groove an inner edge of the lower pin hole.

Works well

I purchased this for the Brownells Model 601 lower receiver for the model 601 retro rifle build Im working on. This front take-down pin is unique because its needed for an AR-15 Model 601 lower thats different than the subsequent AR-15 lowers that were built. It fit perfectly and looks nice. I can see why they redesigned this part in later models as the take-down pin isnt completely secure when installed. It moves back and forth a little bit and its a little loose but thats just how its designed. The regular AR front take-down pins stay in place without moving around. If you get a Brownells Model 601 lower receiver you need this style of pin though. Im glad that Brownells offers this style of pin.

Perfect fit in early Colt

Works perfect in my early model Colt M16.